Having resided on the Redlands Coast for nearly 16 years now, I believe that it is one of the premier (still a little secret) spots around SE Queensland to live, particularly for those of us who love the great mixture of bush and ocean.
Moving from Sydney to a new home in the Redlands, I was eager to become involved in my community whether by assisting youth at school with financial literacy projects or volunteering at local sporting clubs.
By visiting the elderly in retirement villages, preserving our heritage at Ormiston House or by diversifying my knowledge and intellectual stimulation through classes at the Donald Simpson Centre, the range and availability of opportunity for community to connect on the Redlands Coast was amazing!
Since joining non-profit community group Mates Theatre Genesis (MATES), I am surrounded by remarkably talented people each with their own life story.
Human interest is a key focus for me, everyday people, whose determination of choice overcomes many obstacles and community theatre offers a plethora to whom I can relate and gain inspiration from.
MATES members possess diverse talents that utilise imagination, emotion and humour to bring our shows to life leaving audiences thoroughly entertained and eager to return.
Actors, directors, stage managers, lighting and sound, costuming, working 'front of house' or 'back stage', all crews are fun to be around.
Plus, MATES offers great upskilling opportunity with workshops to assist and encourage expansion or refreshment of knowledge.
As our supporter base grows so does our desire to give back to the Redland community.
During 2020 working in tandem with the Redland Museum, Redlands Centre for Women and the Redlands Performing Arts Centre we are raising funds and awareness of those who live on the Redlands Coast and beyond.
I support the "Be Vocal, Support Local" movement and MATES Theatre Genesis as part of it!